A peaceful student protest for quota reform in Bangladesh escalated into deadly violence recently with clashes between peaceful students, and the ruling government, pro-government supporters and law enforcement agencies. The ruling government administration, along with its allies, has been using deadly forces to suppress peaceful protests since they came into power. The recent events have escalated to the extent of killing and assaulting innocent people who are just carrying out their democratic rights. 

Police and security officials fired bullets, sound grenades and tear gas at protesters. So far, we have come to know that a total of 100 people have been killed in the clashes and thousands more were injured. Even the hospitals are closing their gates under political pressure. The internet has been shut down, mobile services severely disrupted, print media and television news has been restricted. The government is attempting to silence critics and prevent the organization of these protests by applying violent force. Witness testimonies, video and photographic evidence analysed and authenticated by Amnesty International and its Crisis Evidence Lab confirmed the use of unlawful force by the police against student protesters. Further witness testimonies confirmed the continuation of a multi-year pattern of violence against protesters, allegedly committed by members of the Bangladesh Chatra League (BCL), a group affiliated with the government.

Student activism has always played a significant role in Bangladesh's history. It was students who took the lead during our Language Movement in 1952 and our Liberation War in 1971. And now, our students are being punished for carrying on this tradition of political engagement and the hope for a better Bangladesh. This oppression of free speech and the right to protest peacefully is an infringement of our democratic values.

After witnessing the appalling acts and brutalities being perpetuated in broad day light by the current regime, we can not sit ideal. We have to find a way to stop these brutalities on the innocent students who are advocating for better future and better policies. I implore students worldwide, global citizens, and political leaders to help us address this issue immediately. It is crucial to put pressure on the Bangladeshi government to halt its violent crackdown on student protests and create a safer environment where freedom of speech is respected and encouraged. The student's voices must be heard and their demands must be fulfilled without any consequences and actions against them.

This violence threatens not just the lives and safety of our students but the very fabric of our democratic society. We want justice for our brothers and sisters who lost their lives while exercising their democratic rights. Please sign the petition today and help us raise international concerns to put pressure on the government to stop this unnecessary violence.

Raise your voice. Let the world know about this tyranny. Save innocent students' lives. 

#SaveBangladeshiStudents 

#QuotaReform